You’ve heard about the mind-body-spirit connection, right? It turns out there is some real, practical SCIENCE involved. It’s science that will have you lacing up your workout sneakers AND inspire you to pick up some weights!
Have you heard about “hope molecules”?
These are real, live molecules that are in your body – and they get released when you exercise, specifically when your muscles contract.
They are called myokines, and they’re a BIG topic of research. They can affect your mood, your immune system, and basically every organ in your body (even your brain). Myokines are special chemicals that your muscles create and secrete when you contract them.
They travel through your bloodstream to your brain, and they act as an antidepressant, make you feel less stressed, and can help you learn.
PLUS … myokines can help:
- Reduce inflammation
- Control blood sugar
- Battle cancer cells
- Improve brain function
- Burn more fat as fuel
The only way to get these chemicals into your brain is to use your muscles!
Researchers started calling myokines “hope molecules” because they appear to work at the brain level to help it recover from stress.
So …. exactly HOW do you exercise to spur more myokine action in your body?
It really doesn’t matter – basically, just make sure your muscles contract. That could mean walking, biking, running, lifting weights, or any other continuous action that makes your muscles move.
Just another reason to feel good about including fitness as part of your self-care routine!
“Fancy” oatmeal recipe mix inside!
Normally I share healthy, quick, and easy recipes, and while this one is definitely HEALTHY and EASY — it does take a little prep time
Small victories = BIG wins
You know those moments when you feel like you’re up against a challenge SO big, it seems like there’s no way out? Maybe you feel like you have a lot of weight to lose, or maybe you’re up against a health concern that seems “impossible” to fix.
Perfect Plate Formula
I’ve got a “hack” to share with you today that could be a game changer in your journey to healthier eating. It’s NOT a new supplement, a superfood, or a fad diet. But it IS more effective – and healthier! – than all of those things.
Does this myth get in your way?
This month we are going to talk about balance – work/life balance, a balanced diet, etc. – but first, I want to dispel a HUGE MYTH.
